Urban Utilities has appointed Aurecon for a 10-year engagement on its NG4D program

A new model to enrich quality of life

The NG4D delivery model represents a fundamental shift from traditional project-by-project delivery to a more integrated, outcomes-focused approach. It emphasises early partner involvement, shared accountability and innovation to deliver cost-effective, sustainable solutions that respond to population growth, climate change and evolving community needs.

Aurecon and WSP bring complementary technical expertise across treatment and networks and with strong track record in supporting utilities with sustaining capital planning and delivery, helping to optimise asset performance and extend infrastructure life cycles. Together, the companies have forged over 10 national water partnerships, with proven expertise in planning and delivery through work with Urban Utilities, SA Water and Sydney Water.

"This program represents a significant step forward in how critical water infrastructure is delivered in our region."

Vanessa Neser, Aurecon Client Leader, Water

Aurecon Client Leader, Water, Vanessa Neser said the appointment reflected Aurecon and WSP’s shared commitment to innovation, collaboration and sustainability.

“This program represents a significant step forward in how critical water infrastructure is delivered in our region,” Vanessa said.

“By bringing together the expertise of Aurecon and WSP under the Kuta joint venture, we can help Urban Utilities shape an integrated, resilient and future-ready network that delivers real value for customers and communities.

“Our focus will be on partnering with Urban Utilities and the wider NG4D delivery partners to deliver solutions that are not only technically robust but also environmentally responsible and customer focused,” she said.

Meeting the needs of a growing region

South East Queensland is one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia, with population forecasts showing strong growth over the next decade. This growth, combined with the impacts of climate change and the need to maintain high water quality standards, presents significant challenges for water and wastewater networks. Meeting these challenges requires long-term planning, resilient infrastructure design and close collaboration across the sector.

Urban Utilities’ NG4D program has been designed to address these challenges by transforming capital investment and delivery. It will leverage data intelligence, cross-sector collaboration and innovative delivery methods to ensure South East Queensland’s networks remain reliable, resilient and sustainable into the future.

"The partners will play a key role in shaping a resilient and sustainable water future for South East Queensland."

Paul Arnold, Urban Utilities Chief Executive Officer

Urban Utilities Chief Executive Officer, Paul Arnold, said the partners will play a key role in shaping a resilient and sustainable water future for South East Queensland.

“We’re pleased to announce the planning and delivery partners joining us under a new partnership-style model to deliver our multi-billion-dollar capital investment program.

These contracts have been awarded following a highly competitive process aimed at our continued focus on reducing costs and delivering long-term savings for customers.

Our partners bring genuine passion and capability to address some of the biggest challenges our industry has ever faced including a rapidly growing population, ageing infrastructure and more frequent extreme weather events."

Building on a legacy of water leadership

Aurecon’s Chief Executive, Australia, Todd Battley said, “For Aurecon, the appointment builds on a long history of partnering with Australasia’s largest and more influential water utilities, combining technical excellence with advisory expertise to help clients achieve long-term asset performance and community benefits.”

“This is about creating a model that delivers better outcomes for customers, communities and the environment, now and into the future.”